The Province has approved a new gold and silver mine in British Columbia’s central Interior region.
It’s anticipated the project, located 112 kilometres southwest of Vanderhoof, will create 825 direct full-time jobs per year during the construction and expansion phases of mine development, and 450 full-time jobs per year during its 22-year operating life. The mine is expected to contribute $13.2 billion to the provincial economy during its lifetime, including $2.3 billion in provincial revenue, BC said.
The Province said the connection to the BC Hydro grid will provide Blackwater Mine with a sustainable source of low-carbon hydroelectricity and the potential to produce gold and silver with one of the lowest greenhouse gas emissions in the world.
“The mine site is located within the territories of Lhoosk’uz Dené Nation and Ulkatcho First Nation, who have been engaged in all aspects of the project – from exploration, to permitting, to environmental assessment. The mine’s owners and both First Nations have a project participation agreement in place,” the Province said in a press release.
With approval of the Mines Act permit, Artemis Gold is able to move forward with major works construction activities. The first gold pour is scheduled for the second half of 2024.
